Tooth decay is among the most prevalent dental issues worldwide. According to the Australian Dental Association, 1 in 3 Australian adults have untreated tooth decay or dental cavities. Tooth decay not only affects the quality of life in kids and adults but is also a cause for missed days in school and at work. But the good news is that tooth decay is treatable and, more importantly, preventable!
What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is a process in which tooth structure is damaged due to acids released by harmful bacteria in the dental plaque and tartar. Tooth decay involves the removal of minerals from the dental enamel – the strong layer of the tooth – making it weak and vulnerable.
Tooth Decay; How Does it Occur?
Tooth decay is a gradual process that begins with the formation of plaque and tartar deposits on the teeth caused by poor oral hygiene. These deposits are ideal breeding places for the harmful bacteria that utilize the sugars within the plaque and release acidic by-products that make the oral pH acidic. This results in removing the minerals from the enamel into the oral and weakens the tooth. If this situation is not treated promptly, the decay continues and creates holes in the tooth, called tooth cavities.
What is the Treatment for Tooth Decay?
The tooth structure lost due to tooth decay cannot be regenerated. However, to restore the damaged tooth’s shape and aesthetics, we will restore it with a suitable filling material. At Camden Family Dental, we use tooth-colored composite bonded fillings to restore damaged teeth. However, for teeth that have been grossly damaged, we will restore them with white fillings and then reinforce them with porcelain crowns.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay can seriously affect one’s oral health. However, the good news is that it is preventable. All you need to do is maintain optimal oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing. Furthermore, you must also visit us regularly for checkups. This allows us to visualize all your teeth for early signs of tooth decay and treat it before it causes permanent damage. We also recommend fluoride therapy in kids who are at a higher risk of tooth decay, as fluoride therapy is quite effective in preventing and arresting early tooth decay.
Don’t let your pearly whites be affected by tooth decay! Book an appointment with us, and let us make sure that your teeth remain healthy and cavity-free so that you can enjoy a confident and healthy smile.